I hike in areas with low mountains, under 1000 meters, where the trails can be very icy, especially on paths previously used by off-road vehicles that leave the ground smooth and slippery. I recently bought a pair of Quechua MH500 boots, advertised for snow, but I find them unsuitable for longer hikes (20-30 km). The rubber sole lacks ventilation and doesn’t offer much ankle support. Given that it rarely snows heavily here but ice is a common issue, I need shoes that can handle icy, steep paths effectively.
For icy paths, you might want to consider shoes that can accommodate microspikes to prevent slipping.
I use YakTrax over my regular winter boots for better traction on ice and snow, and it works quite well.
Jaden said:
I use YakTrax over my regular winter boots for better traction on ice and snow, and it works quite well.
Yaktrax are good for light snowy conditions but for more challenging icy trails, like frozen dirt, you really need stronger spikes.
You might want to visit a specialized shoe store for personalized advice. They can offer options based on your specific needs.
@Ben
The Quechua MH500 might not be the best for long distances. Consider a Gore-Tex hiking boot with light insulation, like Timberland Field Boots. They offer waterproofing and are suitable for cold conditions. For added grip on icy surfaces, pairing them with microspikes could be effective.
Check out the Lowa Tibet GTX for robust winter hiking footwear.
I recommend Kathoola Microspikes, especially for icy conditions. They’re great on both ice and rocky terrain. Pair them with sturdy boots like leather Vasque boots for the best experience.
For mixed conditions of hardpacked snow and ice, consider the Chainsen Trail. If you encounter deeper snow, the Chainsen Pro or Grivel Explorer might be better for more aggressive traction.